Baked Cabbage
Baked cabbage is a hearty and comforting dish featuring layers of tender cabbage, savory ground chuck, and flavorful rice. The combination of spices and a rich tomato soup sauce creates a satisfying meal perfect for families or gatherings. It's a delightful way to enjoy vegetables while indulging in a classic flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Cut up cabbage into medium pieces and spread on the bottom of the pan.
- Brown the ground chuck and chopped onion.
- Stir in the rice, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the meat mixture over the cabbage.
- Heat the tomato soup and water to boiling.
- Pour the soup mixture over the meat and cabbage.
- Cover the pan with foil.
- Bake in the oven at 350° for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ground chuck with lentils or a meat alternative. You could also use brown rice instead of white for added nutrition. Be sure to finely chop the cabbage for even cooking and a better texture.
Serving Suggestions
This baked cabbage dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. A simple side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing Taffy Apple Salad can complement it nicely. For a heartier option, serve with mashed potatoes or cornbread. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cabbage contains roughly 429 calories, with 26g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2093mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. You could also use a spicy tomato soup or add a dash of hot sauce to the soup mixture before pouring it over the cabbage.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).